Police Threaten Immediate Arrest For Possession Of Fake Uniforms
Anambra State Police Command has warned that anyone found in possession of unauthorised police kits, including uniforms and accessories, will face immediate arrest and prosecution.
The Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, disclosed the directive on December 9, 2025, saying it was prompted by security reports showing that fake security personnel have been using police and military uniforms to commit crimes, intimidate residents, and evade scrutiny.
In a statement signed by the command’s spokesperson, Ikenga Tochukwu, Orutugu warned, “Any individual found wearing, selling, or using police or other security agency uniforms, kits, or accoutrements without authorisation will face immediate arrest and prosecution.”
He added, “The new measure became necessary following security assessments indicating that unauthorised persons have been using police and other security agency uniforms to commit crimes. Security uniforms remain classified government property, and their unlawful possession constitutes a criminal offence.”
The Commissioner further ordered all divisional officers, tactical teams, and patrol units to intensify visibility policing and conduct thorough verification of personnel identities during operations.
He encouraged residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious individuals impersonating security personnel.
The new directive follows a November incident in which gunmen dressed in fake police and military uniforms attacked a convoy belonging to former governor Chris Ngige along the Nkpor–Nnobi Road in Idemili North.
While Ngige was not in the convoy, a policeman in the lead vehicle was shot, and the attackers reportedly took his rifle and uniform after the ambush.
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